Attendance policy template and enforcement guide

A good attendance policy balances accountability with empathy. It clarifies how shifts, lateness, overtime, and leave interact, and makes approvals consistent across teams.

Start with definitions. Describe working hours, grace periods, and how breaks are recorded. Explain how on-call, night shifts, or split shifts are treated.

Device integration. If you use biometric devices, document what counts as a valid swipe and how offline punches are handled. If using mobile apps, define geofencing and selfie checks.

Approvals and exceptions. Create a self-declaration flow for missing swipes with manager approvals. Limit backdated changes and require notes for auditability.

Overtime rules. Specify eligibility, pre-approvals, and rounding rules. Align with payroll so approved OT converts to pay without manual re-entry.

Transparency. Give employees access to their own logs and balances so disputes are resolved early. Managers should see team views with filters.

Enforcement. Use progressive discipline for repeat issues, but include coaching and reminders. Measure success by fewer disputes and smoother payroll runs.